Jan
W.C. Handy makes his first recording in 1918 and his career in music continued until his death in 1958. He tells his life story in his autobiography, Father of the Blues. Florence native, Sam Phillips, who will earn the name “Farther of Rock ‘n’ Roll”, is born in 1923. Phillips will pursue a career […]
Jan
A partial list of authors for this time period includes: Fiction and Non Fiction Books: Sally Independence Foster Howard Weeden
Jan
Music is a part of the life of the citizens and is included in the curriculum of schools such as the Female Synodical College as early as 1858. Private music teachers and dancing teachers also offered lessons. The hospitality industry grew as riverboats established regular routes on the Tennessee River. The Bailey Springs resort attracted […]
Jan
A partial list of authors for this time period includes: Fiction and Non Fiction Books: Anne Newport Royalle, considered the first American travel writer, send a series of letters related to her stay in northwest Alabama. One dated July 10, 1821, describes Florence, at the foot of the Muscle Shoals, as a new town, situated […]
Jan
These are examples of early items which were produced by the early settlers as well as interpretations by contemporary artist. These are part of a collection found at Pope’s Tavern in Florence, Alabama. Wood Working: This mahogany dining table has an interesting history. The story begins as a piano was being delivered to the Forks […]
Jan
Lauderdale County was founded February 6, 1818 and the City of Florence, March 12, 1818. The Trustees of the Cypress Land Company held a sale of public lands July 22, 1818. A map of lots which were available for purchase by Ferdinand Sannoner included those designated for churches, schools and public use. The City of […]
Jan
The Tennessee River was used as a water route of settlers who braved the land called “Mussel Shoals” which the early explorer, John Donelson called in his diary of the late 1770’s “a dreadful experience terrible roaring and current flowing in every direction”. The Land Ordinance of 1789 provided for the sale of public lands. […]
Jan
The Tennessee River, called “Nunmushsae” by the Yuchis and others told stories of the mysterious voices, sometimes softly, sometimes boisterous that inspired legends. The iconic Indian Mound on the banks of the Tennessee River gives visual expression to habitation in the Muscle Shoals for over 7,000 years. Music, art, and storytelling were part of life. […]
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Northwest RC&D Council.
The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this website do not necessarily represent those of the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Research led by Nancy Gonce; research assistance and additional photography by Amy Privette.